Kids’ Dining with an Added Dimension

Part of South Walton’s charm is the seemingly endless variety it offers, and dining is no exception. When you’re looking for a family friendly atmosphere for your next meal, you never have to stress about picking a place everyone loves. From pizza to seafood, here are a few of our favorite kid friendly restaurants.

Dining with kids in Inlet Beach? Fresh donuts are always the answer, and the Donut Hole also serves up the tastiest breakfast around. From chocolate-glazed classics to pillowy pancakes, there are so many delicious dishes to choose from. If you’re not in the mood for sweets, you can dig into one of their delicious omelets or bagel sandwiches.

If you’re looking for Dune Allen family dining, make sure to check out Stinky’s Fish Camp! True to its playful name, Stinky’s has fast become a fun family favorite and a must-visit in South Walton. Nestled on the shore of Allen Lake, this Dune Allen establishment has a great dock that often hosts live music. Their tasty food includes all sorts of crispy seafood options, from fish to shrimp to oysters.

If you’re wondering where to eat with kids in Gulf Place, try Shunk Gulley. Named after the famous fishing reef just off the coast nearby, this spot serves up some of the best seafood on 30A. The restaurant offers panoramic views of the beach for little ones (and big ones) who love to take in the scene. And there’s always fun entertainment, including live music and spring shrimp boils.

In the mood for a casual spot to eat right by the beach? Located directly beneath Farm & Fire, North Beach Social serves up everything from crispy chicken bites to grouper cheeks. With a full kids' menu and a sand patio perfect for playing, kids can go back and forth between the table and plentiful beach games and toys while you chat and soak up the view.

Staying in Seaside? Great Southern Cafe is one of the best seafood restaurants for families, serving up kid-sized portions of grilled or fried shrimp with Southern-inspired sides alongside calamari and crab cakes for the grown-ups.

If you’re in the mood for barbecue, you can’t go wrong with The Perfect Pig! With locations in WaterColor and Seagrove, it’s the perfect family-friendly dining spot no matter where you’re staying. Try the pulled pork sandwich with a side of curly pigtail fries, or sample the bacon Caesar for something lighter.

Looking for the best pizza places South Walton has to offer? Pizza by the Sea dishes up the perfect slice of South Walton pizza in Sandestin, Watercolor, Seacrest, and Gulf Place. While cheesy bread and kid-sized pizzas are a favorite with young diners, parents love the “one big slice” and Caesar salad deal for a satisfying lunch.

When traveling with kids of different ages, one-size-fits-all usually isn’t the best bet. Luckily, The Big Chill at The Hub makes dining with kids in WaterSound a breeze. This lively scene offers a range of eateries and food trucks to choose from, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. At the center is a large, open area facing a stage that hosts everything from movies on the big screen to the best live music in South Walton.

Another full-of-fun option is the Village at Baytowne Wharf. ­From pizza and burgers to fresh seafood fare, there are plenty of Baytowne Wharf restaurants where everyone can find their favorites. The best part? Incredible family fun attractions like arcades, an escape room game center, and an exhilarating zipline just outside!

For even more waterfront dining, Bud & Alley’s Pizza Bar + Trattoria delivers hot slices with an incredible view. All the fun of Seaside is at your fingertips, while the stunning turquoise Gulf water is right at your toes. This beachside classic is equal parts laid-back and festive, creating a truly kid-friendly vibe.

Andrew Preble, former manager of Bud & Alley’s (and a lifelong local), now runs La Crema Tapas and Chocolate in Rosemary Beach. As a parent raising kids in South Walton, he’s well versed in unique South Walton family dining. Kids love sampling all the delectable fondue dipping flavors at his festive tapas and chocolate bar, and the beautiful courtyard on Main Street is a perfect spot to enjoy outdoor dining.